Japanese Garden Design Intensive - Foothill Inspired Landscapes

The Southern Colorado Rocky Mountains are central to the design of the Japanese Garden at Denver Botanic Gardens, known as Shofu-en or "Garden of Pine and Wind." In this three-day intensive, learn to apply the Japanese garden design model by finding inspiration from foothill landscapes to use in your garden project - big or small.

Learning objectives include an overview of the history and influencing philosophy of Japanese gardens, observation and analysis of design principles present in Shofu-en and foothill sceneries, understanding ecological systems and their adaptation in designed landscapes, and application of the traditional Japanese garden design process. Use time in the design studio to apply your newfound knowledge and engage in creating your own mindful spaces of connection in the landscape.

Note: There will be outdoor and off-site field trips. Please dress appropriately and bring a willingness to draw by hand.

Price: $350, $320 member, $250 adult student

*Please call our Resource Center at 720-865-3500 to book student pricing

Instructor: Desirae D. Wood

Desirae Wood is a landscape architect inspired by Japanese gardens and trained in both Japanese garden and ecology-based principles and practices, as well as ecology-based principles and practices. Desirae believes you can never build a garden better than yourself. With over 17 years of experience, she currently serves as the founding principal of Dobro Design and was the former garden asset manager for the Portland Japanese Garden. She leads garden renovation, design, construction, maintenance, asset management, research and education while guided by a strong purpose: to connect people to nature through the beauty of awe-inspiring gardens.